A Case Against Trophy Hunting Through Utilitarianism Lens: Evidence from Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

Abstract

The paper delves into the debate on trophy hunting as a conservation tool, examining it from a utilitarian perspective. It financially analyzes the costs and benefits of trophy hunting using a simplified cost-benefit analysis. The study employs a mixed methods design, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods by gathering data from Selous Game Reserve (SGR) and its adjacent villages through interviews with 108 respondents. The findings indicate that trophy hunting in SGR generates positive net benefits of 310,438 USD, making it financially viable. However, the study also reveals that conservation and local community development are not prioritized in its expenditures. Moreover, the negative social and ecological impacts of trophy hunting mean it does not provide the greatest benefit to the greatest number, as Utilitarian theory requires. Therefore, the study concludes that trophy hunting is unethical and recommends against it. Thus, sustainable wildlife conservation and income generation options such as ecotourism may be tested and considered in Tanzania.